The symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of winter depression that affects an estimated 7% of the population (SAD Association. 2010).

Every winter many people suffer from the symptoms of SAD. The symptoms of SAD usually recur each winter, starting from anywhere between September to November and continuing on, until the spring, depending on the spring sunshine quality and quantity.

Recent research into how and why people respond to their changes in mood, has been helpful in increasing our understanding of effective rather than ineffective coping strategies. It has been shown that the sooner someone addresses their symptoms and takes action, the quicker results can be seen (Nash and Barnier 2008).

A GP will usually make a diagnosis after three or more consecutive winters of symptoms, which can include any number of the following:

Depression - Sleep Problems -  Lethargy - Overeating - Cognitive Function - Social Problems - Anxiety - Loss of Libido - Sudden Mood Changes in Spring.

It has been shown (SAD Association. 2010) that sufferers show signs of a weakened immune system during the winter, and are more vulnerable to infections and other illnesses, the SAD symptoms disappear in spring, either suddenly with a short period (e.g. four weeks) of hypomania or hyperactivity, or gradually, depending on the intensity of sunlight in the spring and early summer.

All of the above presenting symptoms can be managed, helped and radically alleviated, using the techniques taught in Clinical Hypnosis and Cognitive Behavioural Hypnosis.